ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROJECT CONSULTANT

Position Summary 

 

The Economic Development Project Consultant position will function as the Senior Program Manager for Science and Technology Programs. The Economic Development Project Consultant will be responsible for focusing on strategy, incentive oversight, leadership, financial oversight of programs, board management and development of relationships for the Division of Small Business and Entrepreneurship Development.

 

Preferred Qualification

 

Strong communication, interpersonal, organizational, finance and project management skills.

Knowledge of business and management principles involved in planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership, and coordination of people and resources.

Ability to communicate information and ideas orally and in writing.

Ability to work with diverse groups.

 

Job Responsibilities and Expected Results

 

1. Program Incentive Oversight
   1. Provides strategic leadership and oversight for:
      1. Accelerator Grant
      2. SBIR Matching Grant
      3. R&D Tax Credit
      4. TTAG
      5. SCIP
      6. TDP
   2. Ensures programs align with AEDC’s mission and statewide innovation priorities.
   3. Guides Program Manager on program execution and intake activities.

 

1. Supports Division Director with the following initiatives
   1. Arise
   2. Onward FX
   3. Arkansas Business Resource Hub
   4. ESO Monthly Call

 

1. Oversees S&T Board
   1. Leads S&T Board activities
   2. Oversees S&T Board Committees

 

1. Financial Management
   1. Manages S&T Budget, monitors and reports
   2. Ensures compliance with AEDC rules and procedures
   3. Manages invoices and oversees grant compliance processes (with assistance of Program Manager)

 

1. External Engagement & Strategy
   1. Serves as primary external representative for S&T programs to stakeholders, entrepreneurs, economic developers, chamber executives, etc.

1. Strengthens ecosystem partnerships through proactive relationship management.
2. Identifies gaps, opportunities, and future needs for the Division.
3. Participates in and engages in events around the state related to small business and entrepreneurship representing AEDC

 

1. Team Leadership & Collaboration
   1. Works closely with Program Manager, Senior Project Manager, and Project Coordinator roles related to S&T.
   2. Mentors Program Manager to ensure seamless intake, program execution, and follow-up.

 

1. 1. Fosters collaboration across the division and AEDC to integrate S&T efforts with small business and entrepreneurship initiatives.
   2. Manages S&T Board Committees

 

Key Business Processes/ Duties 

 

1. Leading the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Division, including supervision duties.
2. Tracking and identifying ways to increase small business and entrepreneurial activity in Arkansas.
3. Serving as the lead in reviewing and making recommendations for funding to ESOs and their accelerator programs.
4. Serving as a resource and a point of contact for small businesses and entrepreneurs that are evaluating Arkansas as a potential location for their business.
5. Providing advice and consultation to economic developers at the local level on increasing small business and entrepreneurial activity.
6. Other duties as assigned.

Position Information

Job Series: Program Operations – Economic Development

Classification: Economic Development Project Consultant

Class Code: PED02P

Pay Grade: SPC06

Salary Range: $94,537 – $139,915

Job Summary

The Economic Development Project Consultant is a seasoned professional who provides strategic guidance and expertise in planning, executing, and evaluating initiatives that drive economic growth and community revitalization. The consultant collaborates with public agencies, private enterprises, and non-profit organizations to attract investments, develop sustainable business environments, and enhance the quality of life within communities. This role demands a deep understanding of economic policy, market analysis, and project management, ensuring that economic development strategies are data-driven, innovative, and tailored to local conditions.